An audiologist is a healthcare professional who specialises in the assessment, diagnosis and management of hearing loss and balance disorders. Audiologists have extensive training in the anatomy and physiology of the ear, as well as the function and science of hearing.
In the UK, audiologists must complete a 3-4 year Master’s degree in audiology that is approved by the Registration Council for Clinical Physiologists (RCCP). They must also register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) in order to practice legally. Audiologists work closely with ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctors to provide complete care for patients with hearing and balance issues.
Hearing Tests and Assessments
One of the main roles of an audiologist at a clinic like www.hearclearni.co.uk is to conduct hearing tests and assessments. This usually starts with taking a full case history to understand the patient’s symptoms and experiences. The audiologist will use an otoscope to check the ear canal and eardrum.
This is followed by a hearing test, either using headphones or insert earphones, to measure hearing sensitivity across different frequencies. The results are plotted on an audiogram chart. Other tests may also be conducted to check for issues with the middle ear or auditory nerve function. The audiologist analyses the results to determine the type and severity of hearing loss.
Hearing Aids and Devices
If hearing loss is present, the audiologist will discuss treatment options like hearing aids and other assistive listening devices. They are specialists in fitting hearing aids and making sure they are programmed and adjusted for the individual’s hearing profile. The audiologist will demonstrate how to use and care for the hearing aids and arrange future follow-up appointments to monitor their effectiveness.
For those who are not suitable for hearing aids, audiologists can provide advice on alternative communication strategies and alerting devices. They also counsel patients on ways to better manage their hearing loss in daily situations. Audiologists keep up to date with the latest technological advances in hearing devices.
Balance Assessment and Rehabilitation
Audiologists are also trained to assess and treat balance disorders which often co-occur with hearing loss. They can perform specialised balance tests to identify if a problem originates in the inner ear balance organs or is related to the brain or central nervous system. These tests may include videonystagmography (VNG), rotary chair testing and computerised dynamic posturography.
If an underlying condition is identified, the audiologist will provide rehabilitation exercises and strategies to help improve the patient’s balance and reduce their risk of falls.
Tinnitus Management
Many audiologists offer treatment for tinnitus, which is the perception of noise or ringing in the ears. They can provide sound therapy approaches to help manage tinnitus symptoms and counsel patients on effective relaxation techniques and lifestyle changes to improve their quality of life. If tinnitus is caused by an underlying medical condition, the audiologist will refer the patient to the appropriate doctor.
Paediatric Hearing Services
Audiologists play a key role in the early assessment and intervention of hearing loss in babies and children. They conduct objective hearing tests, like otoacoustic emission (OAE) and auditory brainstem response (ABR) tests, that do not rely on child feedback. Audiologists work closely with paediatricians to diagnose the cause of any hearing deficit.
Audiologists play a key role in managing hearing health and improving quality of life.
